IntroductionBell's palsy is the name given to a nervous disorder that causes unexpected paralysis of the face due to abnormal functioning of the facial nerve. Paralysis is commonly found on only one side of the face; however, it can occur on either side. Bell's palsy is named after Sir Charles Bell, a 19th century Scottish surgeon who first encountered the condition. (NINDS Bell's Palsy, sec. 1). In this article, the pathophysiology, which is a discussion of the mechanism behind Bell's palsy, as well as the causes and effects, will be discussed. The clinical manifestations of this condition will also be provided in order to identify some key aspects of Bell's palsy. Finally, advances in medical management, in terms of prevention, treatment and current research, will be discussed. Pathophysiology Bell's palsy is a condition that causes paralysis of the face. The 7th cranial nerve, also known as the facial nerve, is the one that controls most of the muscles of the face (NINDS Bell's Palsy, section 1). The main function of the facial nerve is to express the taste sensations of the tongue and oral cavity (The cranial nerves, 3). The facial nerve supplies preganglionic parasympathetic fibers to be distributed throughout the glands of the facial region. (Gaillard, sec. 3). In this condition, damage to the facial nerve causes that side of the face to droop. Additionally, this nerve damage can affect the sense of taste and the production of tears and saliva. Bell's palsy is a condition that comes on suddenly and can improve spontaneously. One of the most distinctive features of Bell's palsy is its unknown etiology. Previously, Bell's palsy was hypothesized to be the cause of other diseases, such as a stroke or transient ischemic attack, which are conditions that...... middle of paper ......May 9, 2013. Web . April 14, 2014. Mayo Clinic Staff. "Bell's Palsy." Diagnosis at the Mayo Clinic. Mayo Clinic, March 27, 2012. Web. April 15, 2014. “NINDS Bell Palsy Information Page.” Bell's palsy information page: National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS). Office of Communications and Public Liaison National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke National Institutes of Health, September 4, 2012. Web. April 11, 2014. “The Cranial Nerves.” Tsdoc.org. Ed. Fatima Saba. Np, nd Web. April 11. 2014. .